OpenMoko’s FreeRunner is an open-source handset a lot of developers are very eager to get their hands on, and the company has revealed exactly how much they’ll have to pay – and what they’ll get – when it’s finally available later on this month.  Unlike its predecessor, the Neo 1973, which was sold in basic and advanced bundles, only one version of the FreeRunner will be released: priced at $399, it loses the swanky carry case, glossy extras and luxury touches, as well as the debug board.  The latter now becomes an optional extra, priced at $99.

Groups, such as universities or small business, will be able to buy ten units from OpenMoko priced at $369 per handset, while the company is planning some bonus accessories for those who order first.  FreeRunner, as did its predecessor, uses standard Nokia batteries and generic USB chargers so as to keep development and user costs down.  The CAD plans for the casing are already online, to make shell prototyping easier.

The FreeRunner has a 400MHz CPU, Bluetooth 2.0, WiFi, a microSD slot and three-axis accelerometers.  Right now, initial production units are being examined and tested for any flaws before they go on sale.  Last month the company confirmed that the handset would be made available in April.